BILLERICAY and Hadleigh & Thundersley both saw their winning runs come to an end in the Premier Division.

Hadleigh, who had won their last four games, suffered a 70-run defeat against Hornchurch.

But Hadleigh skipper Adam Dobson was quick to praise the opposition.

“It was a tough game for us against very strong opposition,” said Dobson.

“The toss proved pretty decisive but take nothing away from Hornchurch, who played very well and deserved the victory.”

Third-placed Hornchurch batted first and scored 257 in their 50 overs.

Sam Handley, Oliver Smith and Antonio Greenidge all took three wickets each for Hadleigh, who were then bowled out for 187.

Luke Smith top scored with 79 not out but it was not enough to stop Hadleigh losing, much to the frustration of Dobson.

“It’s always frustrating to lose, especially when you get used to winning as a team,” said Dobson.

“But we know how competitive this league is so we were under no illusions that we were going to avoid losing a game until the end of the season.”

Billericay were also beaten at the weekend, losing by 88 runs against Chelmsford.

Chelmsford made 199 in their innings before Billericay were dismissed for 111, to leave skipper Lee Knight feeling disappointed.

“Saturday’s game was a frustrating one,” said Knight.

“We didn’t do too much wrong with the ball but still conceded 199 on a tricky pitch.

“Chelmsford’s skipper Jack Sterland played really well for his 70 odd, which in the end was the difference between the two sides.

“We knew it was going to be tough batting second and the pitch didn’t play well at all.”